Rico Pickett voted AL 5A Player of the Year

Ivan McDowell, Southeast/Mid-South Editor

Future Tide Baller led Red Raiders to Final Four

March 29, 2007 - Decatur High point guard Rico Pickett was definitely disappointed he couldn’t bring home the ultimate prize, a championship for his team, but the consolation prize wasn’t too shabby for the 6’3 Alabama signee.

“Being named player of the year is a great honor. I would have loved to have brought a state title home to Decatur, but it didn’t work out that way”, remarked Pickett who scored 19 points in the semifinal loss to Williamson High of Mobile.

Rico Pickett, not only starred this year at Decatur (AL) High, but this summer during the NBA Player's Association Camp, and other events as well.

During the season, Rico dazzled spectators with his ability to get to the cup at will, as well as stroke the ‘J’ from deep. Not a selfish player by any means, Pickett constantly found teammates for open looks or easy lay ups.

Rico averaged 19 points, seven assists and five rebounds per contest this season, while leading Decatur High to a 27-6 record. He is a 3-time All-State performer.

Expect Rico to become an SEC player of note at Alabama, where his skills, inteligence, physical gifts, and court saavy, should prove a boon for the Tide's program.